Jesy Nelson has shared a deeply moving first birthday tribute to her twin daughters, Ocean and Story, posting beaming snaps from their special celebration on Friday.
The singer’s daughters, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, were diagnosed with SMA1 (spinal muscular atrophy) in January, a genetic condition that progressively affects muscle strength, making walking and neck control extremely challenging.
Despite a difficult first year, Jesy took to Instagram to celebrate: “Such a special day for the most special little girls. I’m so lucky I get to be your Muma. Happy 1st birthday my Ocean and Story bear. I love you more than you will ever know.” 
The heartfelt tribute included snaps of the twins smiling alongside a magical birthday setup, complete with a princess-themed cake, pastel balloons, and a giant light-up “ONE.”
Earlier, Jesy shared an emotional video reflecting on her journey as a parent to disabled children, reading the renowned 1987 poem Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley, which captures the challenges and unexpected joys of raising a child with a disability. The montage featured key moments from the twins’ first year, including health battles, milestones, and treatment experiences.
She captioned her post: “I cannot believe it has been a whole year since having my beautiful baby girls. They have been through so much… my tiny little superhumans. The strongest, most resilient little fighters I’ve ever known. You inspire me and everyone who meets you. One whole year old today – what a milestone. Happy Birthday my Ocean and Story, you are my whole heart and soul. I love you more than you will ever know.”
Since the SMA diagnosis, Jesy has campaigned for expanded NHS screening for newborns to detect spinal muscular atrophy, advocating for nationwide access. She has liaised with MP Wes Streeting and visited the Prime Minister’s residence to push for broader testing. While improvements are being made, she has noted that only certain areas of England will initially implement the screenings, describing it as a “postcode lottery” for families.
Jesy thanked her fans for their support, highlighting that a petition with over 100,000 signatures is set to be debated in Parliament, a milestone she credits to her community: “You guys are incredible, and I am so appreciative of all the love and support. Thank you so much.”
Amid the challenges, Jesy’s birthday celebrations with Ocean and Story were filled with joy, laughter, and a palpable sense of family love, capturing the resilience and spirit of her twin girls in a magical first birthday party.
